5 Bouts Official for April 1's Strikeforce 'Challengers 15'

Two new bouts were announced by the promotion today for the April 1 show, as lightweights James Terry (Pictured) and Conor Heun lock horns while Damian Douglas and Wayne Phillips meet in a 170-pound affair. The event will air live on Showtime at 11 p.m. ET, and is expected to be delayed on the west coast.

Those fights join three previously-announced contests, which will highlight the event as it emanates from Stockton Arena in Stockton, Calif. In the evening's main event, former pro bodybuilder Justin Wilcox will square off with Sengoku veteran Rodrigo Damm. Meanwhile, the co-headliner will feature the Strikeforce debut of 2008 Olympic judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii, as the Japanese import toes the line against kickboxing specialist Scott Lighty. Additionally, Cesar Gracie product David Douglas will butt heads with AMC Pankration standout Caros Fodor.

A winner of four of his last five contests, Terry's lone loss in that span came to top prospect Tarec Saffiedine one year ago. Representing Cung Le's Universal Strength Headquarters, Terry has won back-to-back contests. In October, he earned a unanimous decision over Cesar Gracie student David Marshall, displaying superior striking while battering his foe for three rounds. Most recently, Terry earned a first-round TKO over Lucas Gamaza at “Diaz vs. Cyborg” on Jan. 29.

“I’m looking forward to a good, hard fight against Conor, who has solid experience against top guys,’’ Terry said in the official release. “This is a big step up, but these are the kinds of fights I want. I appreciate the opportunity I am getting. I’ll be ready.’’

Heun looks to rebound from back-to-back losses. The Legends MMA product has been relatively inactive in recent days, dropping a unanimous decision to jiu-jitsu ace Jorge Gurgel at “Challengers 2” in June 2009 before losing to former EliteXC lightweight king K.J. Noons one year later. “Hurricane” has not fought since that June defeat at Strikeforce “Los Angeles.”

“I want to win this fight badly,’’ said Heun. “I was very disappointed when only one judge got it right (against Noons). I love to put on great fights, but this is one I want badly.’’